The extent of education required depends on the type of nurse you would like to become
LPN
Requires a practical nursing diploma, which can be obtained in 12 months at most community colleges
After graduation, you must complete the NCLEX (Nurse Council Licensure Examination) in order to become a licensed practical nurse
RN
Requires a bachelor’ degree in nursing (BSN)
At the University of Maryland, a bachelor’s degree in nursing is not offered, but you can receive a BSN in as little as 18 months if you already have another bachelor’s degree.
May additionally require certification from the National Council of State Boards for Nursing that must be renewed every few years
What are career outcomes like for Nurses?
Nurses are in high demand, with the field expect to grow exponentially over the next decade
While nurses predominantly work in hospitals, nurses may also work in educational settings, clinics, and medical offices
Pay varies greatly and depends largely on level of education
Generally, nurses with more advanced degrees are in higher demand and receive higher salaries
Specialty APRN’s can make upwards of $140,000 per year in mid-career pay
How competitive is Nursing School admissions?
In order to apply to most BSN and MSN programs, a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0 is required
Admissions standards vary widely, but generally no examinations are required
What can I do to be a competitive Nursing School applicant?
One of the most important application components is previous clinical experience
Seek out shadowing opportunities and scribing experience where possible
In many cases, MSN programs will require two years of licensed nursing experience prior to admission
Demonstrate academic success in biology, physics, chemistry, and social science courses
For more information about which courses you should take as an undergrad in order to meet nursing school admission requirements, visit the Reed Yorke Health Professions Advising Office’s web page on pre-nursing coursework.
Demonstrate interest in medical practice
Look for scribing positions and shadowing opportunities
How can I apply to Masters of Nursing Programs?
General Timeline
For fall admission, applications are generally due in February
Interviews occur over the summer
Admission decisions are posted in the summer as well
Be sure to check each nursing school individually to ensure
Components
Transcript/Coursework
Nursing school narrative that explains your career goals/interests and how nursing school will help you achieve them